If there is one thing we know for sure, it's that Spring weather in Montana can be unpredictable to say the least. One moment it can be 65° and sunny, and the next it can be be a full-on snow storm with single digit temperatures. If there is one piece of advice we can give to travelers touring through the Big Sky State, it is definitely to be prepared for any type of weather. Bring your shorts and short-sleeved tee shirts, but have pants and your winter coat on hand!
With such unpredictable weather patters, making plans for fun outdoor activities can be difficult. There is nothing worse than planning going on a 5 mile hike, only to be surprised by a brutal rainstorm, making the trail feel like you are battling a slip and slide. Trust us, we've been there! While Montana weather is undoubtedly bipolar, you can rest assured knowing that Bozeman offers a plethora of fun indoor activities in case of adverse weather patterns. Cheers to that! To ease the stress of choosing the perfect weather-appropriate alternative, check out our list of either/ors that will guarantee you have a fun and eventful day in Bozeman, Montana!
1. Experience Nature!
Hiking in Bozeman
While in the scenic town of Bozeman, MT, hiking is a no-brainer! There are dozens of stunning hikes located in and around Bozeman, representing a several levels from difficultly. Whether you are a amateur hiker, or are a backpacking pro, Bozeman has more than 70 hikes that are sure to get your blood pumping!
A few of our favorite hikes surrounding the Bozeman area are:
- The M Trail - A 1.6 mile loop ending at the iconic "M" landmark. Featuring spectacular views of of the Gallatin Valley and the Story Hills!
- Drinking Horse Mountain Trail - A 2.2 mile trail (round-trip) across from the "M" trail. This dog-friendly trail is perfect if you are looking for a panoramic view of Bozeman!
- Triple Tree Trail - A 4.5 mile trail (round-trip) knowing for great hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing! Featuring a steep climb to an overlook, offering great views of the Gallatin Valley.
Drinking Horse Mountain Trail, Only in Your State
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Visit the Museum of the Rockies
While hiking in Montana is a great way to experience nature, sometimes the spring weather doesn't allow for a enjoyable experience. This being said, we are so lucky to have such a cool educational resource right around the corner. The Museum of the Rockies is a museum based in Bozeman, MT best known for its paleontological collections! This Smithsonian Institution, is the perfect way to experience history and nature, while staying warm and dry indoors.
Here are a few of our favorite MOR exhibits:
- Siebel Dinosaur Complex - An exhibit featuring thousands of fossils found across the state of Montana. The paleontology department at MOR is dedicated to researching the deep past of the state and surrounding regions.
- Welcome to Yellowstone Country - If you are in the mood to learn all about Yellowstone, and its past, the Welcome to Yellowstone Country exhibit is a great option!
- Paugh History Hall - This interesting exhibit showcases the interesting lives of early explorers through the mid 20th century, these exhibitions depict the cultural and social changes made by including American Indians, fur traders, gold seekers, and white settlers.
2. See The Stars!
Go stargazing!
Montana is commonly known as the Big Sky Country, and for good reason. Whether you are a Montana local, or are simply traveling through, we sure you've noticed how grandiose our night skies are. Did you know that nearly 90% of the United States cannot see the Milky Way? Stats like these surely make us appreciate living in Montana. So what are you waiting for? Head out on any given spring evening, and soak in the experience of gazing into the cosmos!
If you are looking for the perfect spot to go star gazing near Bozeman, take the short trip up to Hyalite Canyon! This unobstructed view of the Montana nights sky is sure to wow you.
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Visit the Planetarium!
While stargazing in Montana is undeniable a one-of-a-kind experience, the bipolar weather in Montana can definitely make this activity less enjoyable. Luckily the Museum of The Rockies, as mentioned before, has a wonderful planetarium that will allow you to experience the Milky Way as if you were outside! The Taylor Planetarium offers Digistar 4K digital projection on a 40-foot dome, and enough seats to fit 85 people! This state-of-the-art projection system allows visitors to dramatically experience our fascinating universe.
3. Relax and Recharge!
Visit the Bozeman Hot Springs!
One of the best ways to soak in the beauty of Montana is undeniably at one of the several hot springs located within the Big Sky Country! One of our favorite hot springs is definitely Bozeman Hot Springs, located just outside of Bozeman.
Bozeman Hot Springs features 12 different pools ranging from 59° to 106° offering the ultimate sense of relaxation for any individual looking to unwind and take a load off!
Bozeman Hot Springs
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Head into Bozeman Hot Springs indoor pools!
If you are dying to soak, but the weather is being uncooperative, don't worry! Bozeman Hot Springs features 8 indoor pools, that will allow you to get in your self-care fix, while still avoiding the less-than-ideal weather patterns outside! We are obsessed! Did we mention that all 12 of the pools at Bozeman Hot Springs are naturally heated and come from an underground well? So cool!
Bozeman Hot Springs
4. Explore the Town!
Walk the Main Street to the Mountains trail system!
With the competition of the Main Street to the Mountains trail system, people are able to safely travel from downtown Bozeman, to major recreational destinations surrounding our funky mountain town. In 2019, this completed trail system includes a shared-use path that goes as far as connecting the Drinking Horse Mountain Trail all the way to the College "M" trail. How cool!
Get outside and enjoy the beautiful spring weather while visiting Bozeman's top recreational areas. We guarantee you will have a wonderful time!
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Shop Downtown Bozeman!
If you had plans to walk the Main Street to the Mountains, but run into unfortunate weather, don't fret! Simply head downtown, and do some local shopping! Whether you are looking for housewares, clothing, home décor, or outdoor recreation shops, downtown Bozeman has got your covered!
And did we mention that we have a Montana Gift Corral location at 237 E Main St, Bozeman, MT. Head into our shop to check out our thousands of Montana-made and inspired products, while simultaneously catching a break from the indecisive Montana spring weather!
5. Let's Get Physical!
Spring Skiing!
When it comes to fan favorite spring activities, spring skiing is undeniably at the top of many people lists! One of our favorite ski resorts, Bridger Bowl, doesn't close until early April, so you can rest assured knowing that you will have the opportunity to ski through much of the spring season!
Bridger Bowl is a private non-profit community ski area located 16 miles north of Bozeman, Montana. This resort is heavily regarded as one of the best ski resorts in Montana, offering ski hills for skiers of all skill levels!
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Head to Jump Time Bozeman!
If you are looking for a family friendly activity that doesn't require freezing your butt off, head to Jump Time Bozeman to have some fun and get some exercise in!
Jump Time Bozeman offers many trampoline attractions including but not limited to extreme dodgeball, ninja warrior course, slam dunk basketball, battle beam and slack line, and even a toddler area for the younger kiddos! How fun!
Just because Montana spring weather is unpredictable, doesn't mean that you don't get to have fun. With any of these either/ors we guarantee you and your family and friends will have the time of your lives whether it is 65° and sunny, or 10° and snowing.
Written by: Alexa Jorgenson, MGC Content Creator
Blog Cover Designed by: Averi Thompson, MGC Graphic Designer
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